Srinagar: In a recent move by authorities in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir, senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was once again prevented from delivering the Friday sermon at Srinagar’s Jamia Masjid.
According to Kashmir Media Service, Mirwaiz has been under continuous house arrest since September 2 and criticized the government’s actions as undemocratic and illegal, asserting that these restrictions hinder his religious and public duties. He was also barred from attending a crucial meeting of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Ulema, which was scheduled to discuss significant amendments to the Muslim Waqf Act. The restrictions extended to his participation in a media session addressing the situation in the region.
Mirwaiz highlighted the inconsistency of these actions with the claims of normalcy purported by the authorities, especially in the context of the forthcoming assembly elections. Despite assurances from the Election Commissioner of India against preventive detentions, Mirwaiz noted that local political workers and youths continue to be detained or are required to present themselves at police stations.
He also voiced concerns about potential changes to the Waqf laws, urging the public to remain vigilant. Additionally, Mirwaiz paid respects to the late CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechury, recognizing his support for the rights of the Kashmiri people.